Silver-stripe round herring facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Silver-stripe round herring |
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Spratelloides
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S. gracilis
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| Spratelloides gracilis |
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The silver-stripe round herring is a small, shiny fish that looks a lot like a herring. It is also known as the slender sprat or Kibinago minnow. Its scientific name is Spratelloides gracilis. This little fish plays an important role in the ocean's food web.
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What is a Silver-stripe Round Herring?
The silver-stripe round herring is a type of forage fish. This means it is a small fish that is often eaten by bigger fish, birds, and marine mammals. It helps transfer energy from tiny ocean creatures to larger animals. These fish are usually small, making them a good food source for many predators.
Where Do They Live?
Silver-stripe round herrings are found in the warm waters of the Indo-Pacific region. This includes areas around Japan, Australia, and other islands in the Pacific Ocean. They often swim in large groups, called schools, close to the surface of the water.
Why Are They Important?
These small fish are important for a few reasons. They are a key part of the ocean's food chain. They also have a special use for people.
Used as Fishing Bait
Silver-stripe round herrings are often used as fishing bait. Fishermen use them to catch larger fish, especially skipjack tuna. Skipjack tuna are fast-swimming fish that are popular for food. The small size and silvery flash of the herring make it attractive to these bigger fish.
A Special Food in Japan
In Japan, the silver-stripe round herring is a valued food. It is known there as kibinago. People enjoy eating kibinago in different ways:
- Raw: It can be eaten raw as sashimi. This is a Japanese dish where very fresh, thinly sliced raw fish is served.
- Cooked: It can also be cooked, often like whitebait. Whitebait refers to young, small fish that are eaten whole. They might be fried or grilled until crispy.
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Sashimi of kibinago (silver-stripe round herring)
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Kibinago sashimi with chopsticks
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Grilled kibinago
